Kris Sveen
Guitar, Production & Recording
OWNER OF WES
— is an artist-teacher based in Redlands, California who specializes in jazz and classical guitar. He received his Master’s degree under the guidance of the great jazz guitarists, Jody Fisher and Dr. Paul Murphy; his undergraduate studies were completed at CSUSB under the supervision of Stuart Green and Dr. Robert Knop. While a student at CSUSB, Kris was asked to compose a piece for the CSUSB 24-piece jazz big band in honor of the late blues legend B.B. King. This piece was showcased at one of B.B. King’s concerts in November of 2009. In 2009 and 2010, Kris won the “Outstanding Soloist” award at the Reno Jazz Festival. In between his studies for his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, Kris was invited to participate in the Thailand International Jazz Conference (TIJC) along the likes of E.J. Strickland, Marcus Strickland, Benny Green and Ben Williams. At the conference, Kris also worked alongside Dr. Robert Knop to lead masterclasses on jazz improvisation for local Thai students. Since completing his degrees in 2014, Kris has been a professor at California State University San Bernardino, Crafton Hills College, and Moreno Valley College and has built successful jazz and guitar programs at each. He has instructed courses on music theory, introductory and advanced jazz improvisation, and music technology, and has directed multiple jazz ensembles and taught applied lessons in jazz and classical guitar at all three campuses.
Recently, Kris has started a new, forward-thinking jazz trio with bassist, Dylann Asa, and drummer, Tate Kinsella. Together they have been directing jam sessions, accompanying instrumentalist and vocalists, and creating their own original music. This trio looks forward to developing an educational program that is rooted in history and tradition, yet integrated with modern technology and styles.